Freshness tracker · IEIreland

Seasonal Employment Permit introduced

In force Visa & immigration

A new short-term permit for seasonal employment (horticulture, soft-fruit picking, agriculture) up to seven months per calendar year. Initially piloted in late 2024 and rolled out formally in 2025. Designed to address targeted labour shortages without creating long-term residence pathways.

Who it affects

Non-EEA workers in seasonal agricultural sectors; horticulture and agri-food employers.

Sources

Primary: Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment ↗

Corroborating: Government of Ireland ↗

Verified 2026-04-19 · methodology · report a correction